Can I Use a Road Bike for Commuting?
Written by: Rémy Rossi | February 9, 2025 | Time to read 5 min
Is it a good idea to use a road bike for commuting? I’ve had this routine for years, but there are some drawbacks.
More about the Author: Remy Rossi
Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.
Technically speaking, anything can be a sandwich— as long as there’s dough and something in between. A hot dog? Yes. A sock sandwich? Gross, but yes. This is because “sandwich” refers to the concept rather than the specific parts, or rather, ingredients.
The same is true for commuter bikes— any bicycle you use to regularly shuttle yourself back and forth is, by definition, a commuter bike. However, certain models such as city e-Bikes are designed specifically to make the daily trip more efficient and comfortable. If you’re wondering if you can use a road bike for commuting, the short answer is yes! I’ve commuted on my road bike for years, but let’s into the nitty gritty.
The same is true for commuter bikes— any bicycle you use to regularly shuttle yourself back and forth is, by definition, a commuter bike. However, certain models such as city e-Bikes are designed specifically to make the daily trip more efficient and comfortable. If you’re wondering if you can use a road bike for commuting, the short answer is yes! I’ve commuted on my road bike for years, but let’s into the nitty gritty.
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Road bikes vs commuter bikes
What’s the difference between road bikes and commuter bikes? Road bikes are built to be as efficient and fast as possible over smooth surfaces— that means narrow tires, an aggressive riding position, and limited frame add-ons.
Commuter bikes, on the other hand, are purpose-built for daily city riding. Most models come with fenders, a rear rack, and wider tires with a heavier tread. Riders can easily attach panniers to the bike to carry a backpack, groceries, or other items. Some commuter bikes even have a suspension seat post or front suspension fork for added comfort on imperfect streets.
I’ve heard cyclists compare this difference to that of an SUV and a sports car— the sports car may be fun to drive, but it’s not quite as practical within city limits. It ultimately depends on your route and personal preferences, though.
Commuter bikes, on the other hand, are purpose-built for daily city riding. Most models come with fenders, a rear rack, and wider tires with a heavier tread. Riders can easily attach panniers to the bike to carry a backpack, groceries, or other items. Some commuter bikes even have a suspension seat post or front suspension fork for added comfort on imperfect streets.
I’ve heard cyclists compare this difference to that of an SUV and a sports car— the sports car may be fun to drive, but it’s not quite as practical within city limits. It ultimately depends on your route and personal preferences, though.
Commuting on a road bike
I’ve commuted on a road bike for years so if you needed some reassurance, there you have it. Like most commuters who use a road bike for their daily ride, I do it because it’s faster. Road bikes will always be quicker on smooth pavement, and I’m already used to the more aggressive forward-leaning position on the bike. Many cyclists don’t have to carry much on the bike and enjoy the commute as more of a workout or training session.
For a while there, my road bike was the only bike I had so doubling it up as my commuter was the best option. If you only have a road bike to use as your commuter, go right ahead. That said, if it’s a fancy model (mine wasn’t), you may want to take it inside the office with you or find a safer spot to park it during the day. Road bikes often use quick-release skewers that make it easy to take off the wheel— you can replace them with anti-theft skewers for some simple city-proofing.
Drawbacks of commuting on a road bike
It’s not always sunshine and rainbows when commuting on a road bike, though— especially when it’s wet or raining. For example, road bikes don’t typically come with fenders to keep the wheel spray away from your clothes.
- Reduced comfort: Road bikes have more aggressive geometry compared to the relaxed riding position of city bikes
- Bumpy ride: Potholed streets and imperfect roads can be uncomfortable on a road bike due to the narrow tires and lack of suspension
- Lack of cargo options: Most road bikes don’t come with a rear rack or ability to mount fenders or baskets
The exact compatibility with accessories like fenders or a rear rack depends on the model of road bike. Some road bikes have room for fenders and wider tires or come with rack mounts. There are also common workarounds like seatpost-mounted racks and clip-on fenders.
I’ve noticed that electric road bikes tend to be more equipped than standard road models, often with larger tire clearance and room for add-ons. For example, models like the Bianchi E-Impulso have a rear rack while the Cannondale Topstone Neo comes with wider, more comfortable tires.
Advantages of commuter e-Bikes
As mentioned, commuter bikes are tailored specifically for city riding, so they are a great choice in most cases. An even better upgrade is riding an electric bike!
E-city bikes make for the perfect commuter because they combine comfort and convenience without sacrificing speed— and they’re probably even faster than a standard road bike. You can arrive at work or school sweat-free thanks to the e-Bike’s motor helping out on hills. It’s easier to keep up with cars on the road, but you’ll want to slow down whenever you’re sharing the path with pedestrians or other cyclists.
Upway has a huge selection of commuter e-Bikes that are ready to transform your daily ride, all at a big discount. We also stock cargo e-Bikes if you need some extra hauling room or folding e-Bikes when space is at a premium. And, of course, you can check out a road e-Bike or used electric bike for even more options to conquer the city.
Can you ride electric bikes on the road?
Class 1, 2, and 3 electric bikes are legal to ride on most streets. There may be restrictions on shared-use paths with pedestrians and other cyclists, such as speed limits— and some e-Bikes aren’t allowed on certain trails.
When does it make sense to commute on a road bike?
- Long, well-surfaced commutes: Road bikes are great for commutes that follow smooth roads or paved paths where you can safely travel at higher speeds.
- Getting that workout in: Road bikes can allow you to get a bit more of a workout on your daily commute, ideal for fitness-oriented riders.
- Riders who pack light: If you don’t carry a heavy backpack or require panniers to transport your stuff, a road bike is sufficient for your needs.
Key Takeways
- Road Bikes Work for Commuting: They're fast on smooth roads but lack comfort and cargo options.
- There Are Some Disadvantages: Aggressive geometry, a rougher ride, and limited accessory mounts can make commuting harder.
- Commuter e-Bikes Can Be Better: They offer speed, comfort, and practicality with added features for urban riding.
